Head of Operational Function, Ministry of Justice, Bournemouth – Visa Sponsorship Available

The Ministry of Justice is seeking a Head of Operational Function for a permanent, full-time role in Bournemouth, Poole, and Weymouth. This pivotal Civil Service position is ideal for experienced leaders, including Nigerian and African immigrants, as visa sponsorship is available for foreign applicants. Offering a competitive salary of £76,241 to £82,145, this role presents a significant opportunity to lead critical operations within the UK's National Probation Service.

Job Description

As a Head of Operational Function within the National Probation Service (NPS), you will provide robust management and leadership, overseeing resources and guiding the operational and strategic direction of a Local Delivery Unit (LDU) or other designated operational unit. Your responsibilities will extend to representing the Deputy Director with external agencies and stakeholders, ensuring the NPS maintains strong partnerships and effective communication.

This role demands a commitment to equality and inclusion, integral to all policies and procedures within the NPS. You will manage diverse functions across your division, including the line management of middle managers, effective resource allocation, and oversight of Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA). This is an exceptional opportunity to shape culture, drive innovation, and influence strategic partnerships across Dorset, making a lasting impact on people, services, and communities.

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience within an operational setting, preferably in public service or a related field.
• Demonstrable ability to manage devolved budgets and competing demands effectively.
• Experience in overseeing Human Resources related policies and practices, including recruitment, performance management, and disciplinary investigations.
• Strong understanding and application of safeguarding children duties and responsibilities.
• Commitment to equality and inclusion, with an understanding of their relevance to operational work.
• Visa / Skilled Worker (Tier 2) sponsorship is available, making this role open to foreign / overseas applicants who require a UK work visa.

Benefits

• Competitive Civil Service salary ranging from £76,241 to £82,145.
• Opportunity for career progression within the Ministry of Justice.
• Generous annual leave allowance and public service pension scheme.
• Access to a range of employee benefits, including flexible working arrangements where business needs allow (Hybrid Working).
• A strong focus on learning, wellbeing, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

How to Prepare

For Nigerian and African immigrants eyeing this Head of Operational Function role, preparing a strong application tailored to UK Civil Service standards is crucial. Focus on demonstrating your leadership capabilities using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for all interview questions, as explicitly advised. Ensure your CV highlights experience relevant to operational management, strategic leadership, and budget oversight, presented in a clear, concise UK format. A well-curated LinkedIn profile that mirrors your CV and showcases your professional network will also be beneficial.

When it comes to the interview, be ready to discuss your experience with managing diverse teams and implementing strategic initiatives. For visa sponsorship, be proactive but concise; confirm your need for sponsorship and your eligibility. Emphasise your commitment to the UK’s public service values, particularly around equality and inclusion, which are central to the Ministry of Justice’s mission. Prepare to discuss how your international experience brings a unique perspective to the role.

• Refine your CV to highlight leadership, operational management, and strategic planning experience using UK-centric terminology.
• Practice answering interview questions using the STAR method, focusing on situations demonstrating your impact and results.
• Prepare to articulate your understanding of UK public service values, especially regarding equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Be ready to discuss your eligibility for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship confidently, if applicable.
• Research the National Probation Service's current priorities and challenges to demonstrate informed interest.

Visa Sponsorship & Foreigner Eligibility

Visa / Skilled Worker (Tier 2) sponsorship is available for this Head of Operational Function role, meaning foreign applicants who require a UK work visa are encouraged to apply. This position is explicitly open to foreigners and overseas applicants. If your immigration status is borderline or complex, it is advisable to seek independent immigration advice before applying and clearly state your current right-to-work status in your application.